Kerry set to confirm Darragh Ó Sé exit

Kerry are expected to confirm next week that Darragh Ó Sé has stepped down as U21 football manager.

Although the An Ghaeltacht man indicated he would be quitting after Wednesday’s Munster semi-final defeat to Cork, nothing has been made official. County chairman Patrick O’Sullivan is set to meet up with Ó Sé over the weekend.

Ó Sé has been in charge of the U21s for three years now, when they have been beaten by Cork in each of their opening games in the province.

Speaking to Radio Kerry after the match in Páirc Uí Rinn, Ó Sé said: “At this stage, it’s time for a fresh voice. I’ve been there for three years now, enjoyed my time no end, did a lot of work with the lads and enjoyed my time and I think maybe it’s time for somebody else now.”

He complimented his players, the younger of which he believes will come good in the future.

“These young fellas have given a huge effort, they’re fantastic footballers. They will be fantastic footballers for Kerry. People need a bit of patience with them and they’ll be very good. Anything we’ve asked them to do this year, they’ve done and then some. I’d have to shoulder most of the responsibility for all that.”

Speculation is already mounting about who will take over the spot, with Pat Spillane making no secret of his desire to take the helm.

Seamus Moynihan, a selector with Ó Sé this year, may also be a candidate.

However, there is a strong possibility Jack O’Connor will be keen on moving with his All-Ireland winning minors into the next age grade in 2016.

After bridging a 20-year gap last year in leading the county to the Tom Markham Cup, three-time All-Ireland SFC winning manager O’Connor may fancy his chances of ending the Kingdom’s disappointing run at U21 level where they have not won a Munster title since 2008.